Children learn to connect what they know in the world, using language and imagination, through play. As they play, children learn:
Steps on how to include “Play” in library programming:
Resources and videos on how playing with your child can help them to learn. [Zero to Three, 2019]
Bringing the Power of Play into Children's Libraries by Betsy Diamant-Cohen, Tess Prendergast, Christy Estrovitz, Carrie Banks, and Kim Van Der Veen. [Children and Libraries, Spring 2012]
An article by Donna C. Celano, Jillian J. Knapczyk, and Susan B. Neuman captures the efforts of fostering parent engagement in public libraries and the impact of Every Child Ready to Read™. [NAEYC, July 2018]
In this white paper from the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) you wil find programming ideas, a librarian toolkit, and why play is important in the lives of young children. [ALSC, 9/10/2012]
NPR's Morning Edition explore how public libraries are serving families through the five practices of Every Child Ready to Read™ and programs like "Play & Learn." [NPR, 12/30/2014]
Play while reading text to help children make sense of the book. Children can use props such as puppets to talk about the characters in a storybook and retell the story or use other objects to think more deeply about informational text. If there are vocabulary words that are unfamiliar, acting them out through dramatic play helps them by using words they already know and put the new words into action.
Fun, engaging prompts to wriggle and move with your child while reading this aloud. It is great for gross and fine motor skill development. (Bounce and Stretch available by Cronin, too.)
Encourage your child to build with blocks or other toys at home or at your library, both independently and with others. Look at the pictures in the book and inside the covers for fun ideas of things to make
Join the fun by sharing words your baby can repeat and act out, much to their delight!
A roaring good-time of the traditional song, be sure to give your child time and space to act out the movements and play around in a pretend jungle.
Lift your child higher and higher or ask older children to stretch taller and taller while reading the book aloud.